John Linner

John Linner, beloved husband, father, grandfather ("Opa"), and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully, surrounded by the family he cherished. Born on June 2, 1936, in New York City, John lived a life marked by devotion-to his faith, his country, his work, and above all, the people he loved.

A devout Catholic, John lived his faith quietly but deeply. His values of humility, compassion, and service guided him throughout his life and shaped the way he loved and cared for others.

For 64 years, John shared an enduring and joyful marriage with his wife, Irene. Together they built a home filled with warmth, laughter, and unwavering support. Their partnership was the steady foundation of a large and loving family.

John was a proud father to four children:

• John Paul Linner and his wife Kim Linner

• Mary Beth Eustace and her husband John Eustace

• Jenifer Stankiewicz and her husband Bob Stankiewicz

• Sue Flesch and her husband Todd Flesch

He took great joy in being "Opa" and was blessed with 11 grandchildren and one great-grandchild, each a source of pride, delight, and endless smiles. His grandchildren include:

• Jes Stankiewicz

• Corey Eustace Downs (Kevin Downs)

• RJ Stankiewicz (deceased)

• Jenna Eustace Osborne (Dylan Osborne)

• Jay Eustace

• Reilee Linner

• Megan Flesch

• Jillian Stankiewicz

• Taylor Flesch

• John Patrick Linner

• Lindsey Flesch

His precious great-granddaughter, Jane Downs, brought joy and light to the family and to John's later years.

A patriot at heart, John served honorably in the United States Army for three years, achieving the rank of 1st Lieutenant. His time in the service shaped his character-instilling discipline, integrity, and a deep sense of responsibility and pride.

After completing his military service, John embarked on a long and dedicated career as an ironworker in New York City. Over the decades, he lent his strength, skill, and unwavering work ethic to many iconic buildings throughout the city, structures that stand today as a testament to the pride he took in his craft and the legacy he built with his own hands.

One of John's greatest joys was sharing his knowledge and skills from his job to help his children with their homes. Whether it was building, fixing, or planning the next project, he was always there-tool bag in hand-ready to lend his skills, his patience, and his steady presence. His craftsmanship lives on in the walls he built and the spaces he transformed, but even more so in the memories made along the way. He never just built things; he built comfort, confidence, and moments we will carry forever.

John also found peace and joy in the outdoors. He loved hiking, especially the trips he took to Yosemite with his lifelong friends Joe and Billy and even his son John Paul made a few trips. Those trails, mountains, and quiet moments under the open sky were some of his happiest places for John and he loved to share stories and pictures with others. He carried that same sense of adventure, wonder, and appreciation for simple beauty into every part of his life.

He had a lifelong love of sports. He was a loyal NY Giants and Rangers fan even through the rough years but his favorite teams were always the ones his kids and grandkids supported. He cherished coaching his children in their youth, teaching them teamwork, perseverance, and confidence. In his later years, he took immense joy in cheering on his grandchildren at their games, matches, recitals, and school events. Whether on the sidelines of a field or in the audience of an auditorium, he was always their biggest supporter.

Beyond his work and hobbies, John cherished time with his family above all else. The Linner family created countless treasured memories during summer vacations along the Jersey Shore and the beaches of North Carolina-days filled with sun, laughter, games, walks, happy hours and the simple joy of being together. These memories are one of the many priceless gift he has given to his family.

John's life was defined by humility, generosity, and quiet strength. He had a rare ability to make everyone around him feel valued and supported. His sense of humor, steady presence, and deep love for his family will be remembered always.

He leaves behind a legacy built on love, faith, hard work, and devotion-a legacy that will continue to live on in the lives of all who were fortunate enough to know him.

John will be deeply missed and forever cherished in the hearts of those who loved him.